indonesian U-17 Defender Mathew baker Expresses Gratitude for Overwhelming Fan Support at World Cup
Doha, Qatar – Indonesian U-17 national team defender Mathew Baker voiced his appreciation for the considerable support the team received during their opening match of the 2025 U-17 World Cup, despite a 3-1 loss to Zambia on Tuesday evening (November 4th, 2025). Thousands of Indonesian fans packed Aspire Zone pitch 7, filling approximately 80 percent of the 2,500-seat stadium.
The outpouring of support, which Baker noted has been consistent throughout the team’s journey including the AFF Cup, qualifying rounds, and the Asian Cup, is a important morale boost for the Young Garuda.”They follow us everywhere,so for us it is very vital to have them behind us,” Baker stated,as reported by FIFA+. “But, unfortunately we couldn’t get a good final result today, but we have two more games to get points.”
Baker expressed surprise and delight at the sheer number of Indonesian supporters present.”I knew that there would be more of them today, but seeing almost the entire side of the field filled with Indonesians, I felt really exceptional,” he said. “In the warm-up, I was quite surprised, but I was very happy that we had that extra push behind us.”
Indonesia‘s next challenge is a match against Brazil on Friday evening (November 7th, 2025) at the same venue. With a public holiday in Qatar coinciding with the match, organizers anticipate an even larger crowd. the team will be looking to secure points in Group H after Zahaby Gholy’s 12th-minute goal was countered by a brace from Abel Nyirongo and a goal from lukonde Mwale for Zambia.